"Terima Kasih, Malaysia!" - A Tearful LCW Announces His Retirement After 19 Years
The national shuttler said it had been a very difficult decision for him.
Datuk Lee Chong Wei, after his monumental contribution to the country over the last two decades, announced his retirement today
"Today, everyone knows more or less my intention for calling this press conference.
"I would like to announce that I'm retiring from the sport after 19 years," the national shuttler said during a packed press conference at the Menara KBS.
"It's a difficult decision for me because I really love badminton, but my health is more important. I want to thank you Malaysians," LCW said as he broke down in tears.
Image via BernamaNews
You can watch LCW's retirement announcement here:
Following LCW's retirement announcement, Minister of Youth and Sports Syed Saddiq said that the badminton legend has been selected as Malaysia's Chef De Mission to #Tokyo2020
"While the decision to retire had been made, his fighting spirit will not die but will continue to burn in the hearts of Malaysians and athletes," said Syed Saddiq, who was also present at the press conference on Thursday, 13 June.
Syed Saddiq added that Lee Chong Wei was a hero for all Malaysians and that to "find another figure like him will be difficult. Someone like this comes once in a lifetime."
Image via bernamadotcom
Thank you for everything you have given to the country, LCW!
Soon after the announcement, Malaysians and fans from all over the world took to social media to thank the badminton legend with emotional messages (not gonna lie, we're tearing up too):
Lee Chong Wei also took to his official Facebook page to share his retirement statement, writing: "To every one of you who have been a part of my life, thank you. A real big sincere thank you."
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